PILLI PIPA DHOW, the genuine product, snorkeling tour to Kisite Marine Park
4.5
PILLI PIPA DHOW, the genuine product, snorkeling tour to Kisite Marine Park
By Pilli Pipa Dhow Safari
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About
Select this full-day cruise aboard a traditional dhow sailboat and enjoy two snorkel stops on the beautiful coral reef at Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park. Be on the lookout for dolphins and turtles as you cruise through the marine park. The day includes a light breakfast, a Swahili-style seafood lunch, and free-flowing drinks on scenic Wasini Island.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 3-99, max of 40 per group
Duration: 8–9 hours
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
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Highlights
- Snorkel in Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park to see pristine reefs
- Cultural experience: travel in a traditional sailing dhow
- Enjoy snacks, drinks, lunch, and open-bar
- Included park fees and snorkeling gear mean no extra costs
- Pick up and drop off from your Diani Beach, Msambweni or Tiwi hotel
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- GST (Goods and Services Tax)
- Fully owned and licenced boat and captain
- National Park fees
- Morning tea and snacks
- Cold soft drinks and water on board throughout the tor
- Professional marine guides and snorkelling/ diving instructors
- All snorkelling equipment hire including: Snorkelling masks, prescription snorkelling masks,snorkels, fins,life jackets and buoyancy rings. All our equipment is imported from the Netherlands and regularly serviced and replaced.
- Buffet style seafood lunch (vegetarian or chicken option available if ordered in advance)
- white wine or beer included with lunch
- Snacks
- Coffee and/or Tea
- Bottled water
- Soda/Pop
- Entry/Admission - Diani Beach
What's not included- Your own beach towel
- Sunscreen
- Water friendly shoes
- Hat and sunglasses
- Camera
- Swim suit
- DIVING at extra cost. Pay on the day. 40 USD
- Meet a driver at your hotel for transfer to Shimoni fishing village, where you board a dhow sailboat for the trip to Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park. Enjoy Kenyan coffee, tea, and morning snacks on the boat, watching for dolphins, turtles, whale sharks, and humpback whales during the crossing. Snorkeling equipment is provided, as well as life jackets and in-the-water help from snorkeling guides, if desired. Two snorkeling stops give you time to take in the remarkable wildlife that thrives on the coral reefs here, with large shoals of fish, moray eels, stingrays, and more. Following your time in the water, head to Wasini Island for a seafood lunch of freshly caught crab and fish, served with alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. After lunch, relax by the beach or in the garden before returning to shore where a driver meets you for transfer to your hotel.
- Start:Multiple pickup locations offered.Pickup details
- Hotel pickups commence between apporximately 7:00am and 7:25am from Diani Beach. Depart from Shimoni jetty at approximately 8:45am
Hotel pickup offeredDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included hotels.End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 58380P1- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
- Evidence of dive certification is required from all divers wishing to participate in a certified dive (fun dives available for non-certified divers). Dives incur additional charges.
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Not normally possible to pick up from Mombasa or North Coast hotels but please ask first to see if we can make special arrangements.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 40 travelers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 58380P1
From
$130.00
per adult
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Itinerary
- 1You will be collected from your South Coast hotel or villa and driven by minivan to Shimoni where you board our dhow to go to the Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park. This excursion is not suitable for collection from North Coast Mombasa hotels as the travelling distance is long. Many guests still do it but there can be long delays at the Likoni ferry. Snorkel at two different dive sites with the chance of seeing dolphins on the way and in the park. Dolphin sighting not guaranteed but highly probable. We see dolphins regularly and there is plenty of marine life to see. Then proceed to Wasini Island for an excellent lunch of fish and crab. Alternatives of chicken or vegetarian can be ordered in advance.
About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- X5451YSlindaw0 contributionsUnforgettableI went on a Pilli Pipa tour as a kid 20 years ago and now again and it remains one of the best experiences - wonderful crew, dolphins following the majestic dhow, beautiful snorkeling experience (with guides that accompany you and explain and spot special fishes), delicious crab lunch - an unforgettable day and a must do if staying in diani.Written October 31, 2022
- Tony M0 contributionsSwam with dolphins!!!We were recommended this boat trip, and booked without a second thought. Our first impressions, as the rain came down on us, were not good, but as the day progressed, and the sun came out, it just got better... and better. Two snorkelling sessions and then lunch, and on the second snorkelling swim we were surrounded by a pod of about 12-15 dolphins. They were certainly not scared off by the scuba divers below us and swam around happily and even when more boats cam to take in the spectacle they seemed to perform even more - leaping out of the water and putting on a show. Great lunch of local foods on Wasini island and then a spontaneous show by monkeys in a tree next door to the restaurant.Written August 29, 2022
- JazzMaverick0 contributionsSnorkelling sublimeHad a fantastic day out with Pilli Pipa Dhow. Everything went smoothly. Booking easy. Staff came to hotel to take payment by card. Picked up at hotel on day of trip. Very good driver Mohammed gave us a smooth and safe drive to Shimoni where we got on a small boat which transferred us to the Dhow. Such a friendly and helpful and good natured crew. Coffee and biscuits during the hour spent getting to the coral reef. Sadly no dolphins as it was windy and choppy. The captain steered us well through the choppy water. On arrival at the reef we were kitted out in snorkelling gear and fins. There were 10 of us on the trip and the crew accompanied us and showed us the best bits of the reef and were very safety conscious throughout. The fish were plentiful and colourful. Some large shoals and large fish. We followed some turtles closely watching them rise up to the surface for air. Back on the dhow for a further short journey to another good spot. Plenty of time snorkelling. Then journeyed to Wasini Island where we were welcomed by beautifully dressed Swahili ladies who sang and then served a seafood buffet. Vegetarian options were available. It was all very smooth and efficient. Food was great and plentiful and after lunch we relaxed in comfortable huts and enjoyed the cactus gardens and baobab trees and the pretty shoreline. After a good hour we then transferred back to the dhow. Done expertly and safely as it was still choppy. Then a pleasant drive back to hotel. All in all a fantastic day out. I spoke to others who had taken cheaper trips but in unshaded boats with questionable safety. Can’t recommend these folk enough. Great organisation and staff.Written January 21, 2022
- RMburu0 contributionsVacationThis was overpriced compared to other Dhows. There was no music on the dhow. Other companies play Swahili music to entertain the guests on the 2+ hours The captain and the diving crew were great at their jobs.Written January 11, 2022
- Antony_Ngatia0 contributionsSnorkelingGot up early inorder to get our ride to the dhow. We opted for the luxury package as both my wife and I love dhows. There were 2 other couples with us, which was alright as the dhow was not crowded. The ride got bumpy at times, but as we have worked on water before this was not an issue. We got to see the dolphins feeding which was amazing. We had lunch at the Pilli Pipa restaurant thereafter. the service and hospitality we experienced was nothing short of amazing and the meal was delicious. We thoroughly enjoyed the entire day. Thank you and God bless 🙏Written January 24, 2021
- 323danielv0 contributionsExcellent!!!We did the Wazimi Island visit, a real highlights while staying at Diani beach. The company has been excellent, every detail of the trip, car pickup, driving, boat, snorkelling, restaurant, beverage, snacks, explanations all top! The real top was the restaurant with so many local delicious specialities. It wasn’t cheap but 100%!worthwhile the money.Written January 15, 2021
- markuss1580 contributionsWonderful boat trip to the reefWe had a lovely experience on the trip with fabulous staff onboard. The crystal blue sea and the rich waterlife made our trip something to remember. Saw many dolphins and sea turtles, and even some smaller sharks during the snorkeling. Worth the trip from Diani.Written December 14, 2020
- bwamaitha0 contributionsFun day outThe team was well organized and helpful. They kept time and were very accommodating to my 2 young kids. The restaurant served a delicious meal that even the kids enjoyed. They were worth it.Written October 23, 2020
- dipshahxxx0 contributionsGreat excursion from DianiThe dolphin safari is something special, if u go to Diani you cannot miss it. A full day on the dhow with snacks drinks and professional and available staff to assist you in the water and outside We recommend it!Written September 14, 2020
- 46vinceo0 contributionsAMAZING SNORKELING EXPERIENCEThe experience was amazing! Out of this world. If you are in Diani, hala at them! Snorkeling at its best!Written September 10, 2020
- shazzlagh0 contributionsSuperb in every wayExcellent experience. The best of my experiences snorkeling in Kenya and abroad. The crew was super professional, most having worked at the company for over 15 years (says a lot for the company). The lunch at their restaurant was also outstanding! Lastly, not due to the company but the variety and quality of what we saw in the Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park was also way better than what I have seen in Watamu. Even saw dolphins! Good memories from this day.Written September 6, 2020
- RMannfield0 contributionsBest dolphin safari ever!Thanks to all the Pilli Pipa team for a wonderful day of fun and nature. Welldone guys! Hope the be able to come back soon! All the bestWritten June 14, 2020
- WinterTravellerUK0 contributionsGreat, except for the wavesHad a great time though both my mum and I were sick on the boat because of the tides. The food was OK but could be better! Hospitality was great. The instructors were attentive to us. Would recommend and I think it's worth the price (I know cheaper operators, as a resident, but I went with them because of the guaranteed professionalism).Written January 23, 2020
- nah11080 contributionsDecent snorkeling tripI did this as my second snorkeling experience. The idea of snorkeling over a protected coral reef was very alluring. The communication with my hotel was good as they had to change the pick up time. The driver arrived on time and the day ran very smoothly. Breakfast was promised which turned out to be some biscuits and cola. They did have water but it looked a bit grim social stayed away. We went to 2 sites, the first was lovely, lots of living coral and fish - was even lucky enough to swim with a turtle. The captain of the boat spotted dolphins on our journey which was special. The second site was a disappointment. Almost all of the coral was dead and I would have enjoyed more time at the first site. The meal was in a restaurant on an island, the food was nice and I enjoyed the visit. I feel the trip is overpriced at around £100. I think it should be around £60. Overall it was a decent trip and the coral and marine life is beautifulWritten October 23, 2019
- catarinaw7520 contributionsSo nice, friendly and the best food in KenyaWe are so happy that we found this trip. We had the luck to see both dolphins and turtles. The staff is very helpful and friendly. The boat is fantastic. The food was the best we have had in Kenya. So don’t hesitate to book, it is worth it!Written July 31, 2019
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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Caroline B
Hertfordshire, UK36 contributions
Oct 2024 • Couples
I would highly recommend this snorkelling tour, even if you are not a strong swimmer or experienced at snorkelling. It was a full day trip, we were picked up from our hotel at 7.30am, and returned at 5pm. I have done many boat trips and can honestly say that this was one of the best organised and professional that I have experienced. The whole team were committed to giving everyone the best experience possible. I am not a strong swimmer so one of the team members (thank you Salem) looked after me so well and allowed me to experience the same as everyone else with the confidence that I wasn't going to get into any trouble in the water. We saw so many wonderful fish, a sea turtle. I loved the fact that the team were so respectful of the sea life. Refreshments were provided on the boat. The lunch stop at Wasini Island was a special experience. The ladies who provided the lunch were informative, proud of their food and happy to help. Whilst it is a lunch of fish, there is the option to have chicken or vegetarian for those who do not eat fish. It was a really beautiful setting.
Written October 7, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It's nice to know that our efforts are appreciated. Most of all, the best thing is that you had a good day. Thanks for the great review.
Written October 8, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
BobbiLammi
20 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
We had the most amazing day trip on Dhow boat, visiting Wasini Island, snorkeling in the Kisite Matine Park. We saw all sorts if fish and sea life on the beautiful corals. We paid an extra $50 for a fun dive and it was the best experience of our whole trip to Kenya. We swam with a pod of dolphins, saw lobster, sting ray, octopus. The guides were fantastic, the boat was well equipped and the staff made youcfeel really safe and were very experienced Padi trained and brilliant at guiding you. Snacks and drinks were provided on board, there were not a lot of people on the boat and one instructor to one or two divers. The lunch was delicious and even if you don't like seafood there was plenty of vegetarian and meat options. The staff throughout the trip, from booking, drivers, waiting staff, all so welcoming and I can't recommend highly enough. We even went to visit the slave caves afterwards which was included in the price. Well worth every shilling!
Written September 3, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Perfect! We feel really happy and it's a boost to our day when we know that people have enjoyed themselves and learnt something new.
Written September 4, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
beachbummer75
Singapore, Singapore404 contributions
I went with them for 2 days diving - first day in Kisite national park and second day at wasini channel village dives. They communicated clearly what to expect, were punctual and attentive. We saw dolphins along the way. The two dives offered different experiences with fishes, dolphins underwater and other critters. What stood out was their experience esp Jatin
He guided well even with leisure divers all over the place - one was constantly attempting to surface when we were only at 10m due to sheer panic every 10 mins (not even sure how he got certified) another diver was going all directions except following us. Yet he kept them at check while guiding and showing stuff underwater. Not easy feat.
Tanks, regulators, bcds, masks fins were provided as part of package and well maintained. They knew exactly the no of weights for each diver.
Lunch was excellent - crabs, fish, roasted seaweed, seafood soup
I recommend staying in Shimoni as it’s much quieter, very few tourists and not having to travel hours back and forth was worth the while.
had the chance to see the reefolution at work and prices were way more reasonable than what I had in Diani
He guided well even with leisure divers all over the place - one was constantly attempting to surface when we were only at 10m due to sheer panic every 10 mins (not even sure how he got certified) another diver was going all directions except following us. Yet he kept them at check while guiding and showing stuff underwater. Not easy feat.
Tanks, regulators, bcds, masks fins were provided as part of package and well maintained. They knew exactly the no of weights for each diver.
Lunch was excellent - crabs, fish, roasted seaweed, seafood soup
I recommend staying in Shimoni as it’s much quieter, very few tourists and not having to travel hours back and forth was worth the while.
had the chance to see the reefolution at work and prices were way more reasonable than what I had in Diani
Written December 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anouk V
3 contributions
Jan 2025 • Family
Pick up from hotel went smoothly, then drove to Shimoni in an hour (there is no water in the bus). There via smaller boats to the dhow where we were with 19 tourists. There was 1 guest who went diving, he had a dive guide with him. With the other guests 2 guides went into the water. Unfortunately the coral was paler than 12 years ago, but underwater it is really beautiful!!!
Even seen dolphins, sea turtle, moray and stingray!
We were with 3 small children. Emailed in advance asking if there were enough snorkel gear in children's sizes or if I had to bring it myself from the Netherlands. The answer after a week was that there was enough. Unfortunately on the boat it turned out that there was only 1 suitable mask for our 3 children, and there were no flippers in her size for the youngest of 7. Luckily we brought swimming goggles so they saw something. Unfortunately there was no information on board which fish we saw, it would still be picked up during the lunch break, but after lunch they appeared to have the information about the coral instead of the fish. We still don't know what we've all seen.
The children could hold on to a floating ring well while snorkeling that was very handy even though they are good swimmers. The guide explained little this time and did not mention much of what we saw, I found that less than last time.
All in all really beautiful to see and a delicious lunch, but equipment for the children and information about what we saw could be better.
Even seen dolphins, sea turtle, moray and stingray!
We were with 3 small children. Emailed in advance asking if there were enough snorkel gear in children's sizes or if I had to bring it myself from the Netherlands. The answer after a week was that there was enough. Unfortunately on the boat it turned out that there was only 1 suitable mask for our 3 children, and there were no flippers in her size for the youngest of 7. Luckily we brought swimming goggles so they saw something. Unfortunately there was no information on board which fish we saw, it would still be picked up during the lunch break, but after lunch they appeared to have the information about the coral instead of the fish. We still don't know what we've all seen.
The children could hold on to a floating ring well while snorkeling that was very handy even though they are good swimmers. The guide explained little this time and did not mention much of what we saw, I found that less than last time.
All in all really beautiful to see and a delicious lunch, but equipment for the children and information about what we saw could be better.
Automatically translated
Written January 10, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Anouk, We are incredibly sorry that one of your children did not get fins that fitted and two did not get suitable masks. The truth is that we have plenty of children's masks, fins and snorkels but a lot of them were on our other dhow. The crew should have made an effort to get some from the other Dhow. Also we do have laminated fish ID cards but likewise they were left behind at the dive base in Shimoni. There is no excuse for these lapses except for the fact that the crew were rather tired after a hectic few weeks over the holiday period. We will try harder and make sure the necessary sizes are available on the correct Dhow.
Written January 15, 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
JoR
5 contributions
Feb 2024 • Friends
Such a wonderful trip, a bit of an adventure at 72 years climbing in and out of boats with choppy sea, glad I took a seasick pill 😀 as it was a windy day. The rest of the customers were much younger. The crew were safety first and happy all the time which was reassuring. There were no hidden extras except for tips. The trip had been recommended by our friend who lived in Arica otherwise we may not have have booked. It was great to meet the eclectic mix of travellers on the boat from all over the world. The lunch served by the Swahili ladies was out of this world in a wonderful location it occurred after we had a leisurely cruise entertained by dolphins and 2 snorkelling sessions with wonderful fish and corals to see in this protected reef. We were informed very clearly every step along the way about our itinerary and felt very safe. At the end of the day we were taken to the slave caves, a very sobering experience, and we saw bats down there. Some people stayed on the minibus but I would recommend that you go. Then driven safely back to our hotel. An exciting end to our African holiday.
Written February 11, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Richmaj. Well done for making this trip and enjoying the experience in spite of the sea being a bit choppy. It's great that you saw a variety of marine life. I agree that more people should go and see the cave, it does give you a glimpse into Kenya's past. Thanks for the interesting review.
Written February 24, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Julie M
Paris13 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
The tour is nice but it not for young children and in retrospect I should have done more research in advance. We went as a family with our 2 kids (4 and 8yo). The tour asked for my children age before booking, charged me and didn’t mention a thing about the tour not being suited for children. The snorkeling is in deep sea, with strong current. You need to be a good swimmer. As such we had to leave our youngest on the boat the whole time and my husband and I were only able to do 1 out of the 2 dive so that one of us could stay on board with our youngest. They only have a couple of floaters and it was challenging (albeit dangerous) to snorkel with our 8 year old. I was quite frustrated that the tour charged us for our youngest and failed to mention anything. With a bit more preparation, it could have been a much nicer experience. There were other kids aboard, and one of them burst into tears due to fear after the snorkeling experience. Parents were all stressed out, as I was… simple fixes and more honesty would greatly improve this tour.
Written August 20, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Our tour is perfectly safe for chldren, we have life vests for everybody on board including children. I do not agree with your damaging allegation that we are dishonest. If you look at any map you can see that the Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park is in the sea. We never said that we are not in the sea. We are not in a lake or river where the water is calm. Kisite is managed by Kenya Wildlife Services who monitor dhow trips like ours. They charge US$ 17 per adult and US$ 13 per child per day and have a small rescue boat on site. We have many children who enjoy the day. 4 years is not too young to learn to swim and our crew are all qualified and certified PADI or NAUI Open Water scuba divers who are used to assisting children and adults who can't swim well. I am sorry you did not ask a crew member to look after the 4 year old whilst you dived. Our own grandchildren have been going on the boat regularly since less than a year old. For information KWS charge US$ 13 for a non resident child of 3 years old. Maybe you could complain to them, it may help them to lower this charge. It's always better to complain on the day, we did have the owners there in Shimoni and a manager on Wasini Island at lunch time.
Written September 19, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Julie W
1 contribution
Jan 2023
The crew were excellent on the dhow. I hadn't snorkelled before and am not a confident swimmer and I was able to hold onto a life ring to enable me to enjoy the experience. Lots of coral and amazingly colourful fish! Refreshments were provided on the dhow. Lunch was disappointing, a 'seafood lunch' consisted of two crab claws and fish balls with vegetables, served by unfriendly staff. The food was cold and the only drinks available were fizzy soft drinks and water. The trip was more expensive than others and we would have expected a beer or glass of wine to accompany the meal.
Written February 10, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for the review, H3263H. In our brochure and from our office, whether verbally, by email or message, we never describe our lunch as a seafood lunch. We always say crab and fish for lunch. Therefore, it sounds as if you booked through somebody else who was keen to make a sale. There were fish goujons and roulades of fish with tamarind sauce and coconut sauce. For the crab you could have asked for more or takenmore, but our ladies should have offered more actually. We have not served alcohol since Covid, when our government put a ban on the sale of alcohol for some time. The ban was lifted but we decided not to start with alcohol again and that is why we put our price down by US$10. Everybody is cheaper than us, that is one of our disadvantages, because we pay for all insurances, licences, taxes, staff health insurance, staff taining etc etc. There was tea, coffee and there should have been citronella tea if the fresh citronella was available. I am sorry that you found our staff unfriendly, most people say the opposite. I am sorry you were not given our brochure before you booked (so that you see what is on offer) otherwise probably you could have chosen something cheaper. On the positive side, your first experience of snorkelling with qualified crew was the best you would have had in the Kisite Marine Park and we are happy about that.
Written February 11, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tobias Sch
Filderstadt, Germany12 contributions
A well-filled day with very nice and clear weather: hence the very clear water during the 2 snorkeling trips. The guides were very friendly, both on the boat and in the restaurant on the island.
The boat is well maintained and clean; the snorkeling spots were great: you could see a lot: colorful fish, moray eels, starfish, flounder, mussels, corals, and with a bit of luck, turtles and more - there is a toilet (of course very simple) on the boat.
The boat is a motorized wooden ship, which has a great atmosphere and at the same time leaves a solid, good impression; the crew has the situation well under control. There is room for around 30 people.
Lunch was also great: the location is beautiful with very tasty food: seafood. Alternatively, chicken is also possible. Here, too, the staff were very friendly and always willing to answer questions.
The boat is well maintained and clean; the snorkeling spots were great: you could see a lot: colorful fish, moray eels, starfish, flounder, mussels, corals, and with a bit of luck, turtles and more - there is a toilet (of course very simple) on the boat.
The boat is a motorized wooden ship, which has a great atmosphere and at the same time leaves a solid, good impression; the crew has the situation well under control. There is room for around 30 people.
Lunch was also great: the location is beautiful with very tasty food: seafood. Alternatively, chicken is also possible. Here, too, the staff were very friendly and always willing to answer questions.

Written August 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
That's a wonderful review Tobias! We are so happy that you had a good day, that's what we aim for. It's depressing when people pick fault with small things and post online but they never mentioned anything wrong when they were here.
You made our day!
Written August 12, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Monica C
1 contribution
Sep 2024 • Couples
My husband and I did the day trip safari.
It was the first time for us and a bit challenging, but the professional crew took good care of us. Every moment was carefully arranged for, from the pick up service with Benson the driver who showed us around while driving, the fantastic fresh mandazis (like donuts) on the dhow, and gourmet food at lunch, to Jason and Calvin "Nyati", hands-on management. Special thanks to Melvin who converted a challenging snorkeling experience into magical moments. Thank you Pili Pipa!
It was the first time for us and a bit challenging, but the professional crew took good care of us. Every moment was carefully arranged for, from the pick up service with Benson the driver who showed us around while driving, the fantastic fresh mandazis (like donuts) on the dhow, and gourmet food at lunch, to Jason and Calvin "Nyati", hands-on management. Special thanks to Melvin who converted a challenging snorkeling experience into magical moments. Thank you Pili Pipa!
Written October 15, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Whow! That's great. We always knew that Calvin was special and his cousin Melvin. We are lucky to have them. But then all of our crew are very caring and aim to give our guests a day to remember. Jason does a good job too on Wasini.
Thanks for the brilliant review!! Please do come again next time you are in Kenya!
Written October 17, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Christian K
Laure-Minervois, France3 contributions
Nov 2024 • Family
Group of 8, we rented a very nice and spacious wooden boat to visit the reserve, snorkeling with dolphins for part of the group and 2 bottling dives for the others.
Very friendly and welcoming staff.
However do not necessarily expect to swim with dolphins and where whales .. We only saw dolphins swimming around the boat for a few minutes, no whales or turtles or swimming with dolphins as shown in the photos and on the website. Disappointing gift on this point.
The two dives of 50mn were nice without more, do not expect a breathtaking spectacle... Some moray eels, big multicolored fish , octopus and lobsters, and corals but nothing exceptional. The water is not as clear and clear as in Mexico (Cozumel, Isla Mujeres) so visibility not at the top.
Max depth 15 meters also
The highlight of the day is the restaurant on Wasini Island where we had lunch. Just wonderful. Just for that it's worth it and it was delicious too (local soups and crabs on the menu) served by locals singing. Nice experience!
Very friendly and welcoming staff.
However do not necessarily expect to swim with dolphins and where whales .. We only saw dolphins swimming around the boat for a few minutes, no whales or turtles or swimming with dolphins as shown in the photos and on the website. Disappointing gift on this point.
The two dives of 50mn were nice without more, do not expect a breathtaking spectacle... Some moray eels, big multicolored fish , octopus and lobsters, and corals but nothing exceptional. The water is not as clear and clear as in Mexico (Cozumel, Isla Mujeres) so visibility not at the top.
Max depth 15 meters also
The highlight of the day is the restaurant on Wasini Island where we had lunch. Just wonderful. Just for that it's worth it and it was delicious too (local soups and crabs on the menu) served by locals singing. Nice experience!
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Written November 25, 2024
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Hello do you pick up from Voyager Beach Hotel?
Written September 7, 2023
What is the cost to rent the snorkeling equipment and how do we let the company know we need to rent their equipment.
Written April 23, 2023
They have on board equipment and the price is included in the tour cost.
Written April 26, 2023
I will be there at the end of October. Is that an appropriate time of year to book this experience?
Written June 2, 2022
hi
im staying at baobab beach resort is this included in the pick up list ?
Written May 12, 2022
Hi, we are four people. How much is the price in Total?
Written September 16, 2019
Sightsee110802
Warsaw, Poland
If i stay already in Shimoni, can I go snorkeling directly from there? Can I find a deal to go the Natl marine park from therer?. Is it possible to go just snorkeling in the park whitout the lunch and island stop?
Written March 13, 2019
Sightsee110802
Warsaw, Poland
If i stay already in Shimoni, can I go snorkeling directly from there? Can I find a deal to go the Natl marine park from therer?. Is it possible to go just snorkeling in the park whitout the lunch and island stop?
Written March 13, 2019
Hola, quisiera saber si esta excursión también se hace con guías en español.
Written February 18, 2019
Khwezi Tsotetsi
Watamu, Kenya
Good day, I will be coming in May between 16-21. Do you not operate in May?
Written January 11, 2019
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.